BBL, WBBL drafts: 432 men, 161 women cricketers nominated
What's the story
The Big Bash League (BBL) and Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) drafts for the 2024/25 season have attracted a significant number of nominations. A total of 432 male cricketers, including prominent pacers such as Jofra Archer, Lungi Ngidi, and Harif Rauf among others have registered for the draft. The WBBL draft has also seen considerable interest with 161 overseas women nominating themselves. Among these are 19 players from India.
Selection criteria
Player availability crucial in team selection
Player availability is a critical factor in the upcoming drafts. The tournament organizers have asked the players choose their availability from four categories - full availability including finals, full regular season availability, 6-9 games, and 4-6 games. Archer has confirmed his availability for the entire regular season as there is no clash with England men's white-ball schedule until a five-T20I series in India, starting January 23.
Draft details
WBBL player availability and Indian nominations
The WBBL draft could be impacted by South Africa Women's multi-format series against England starting November 24. Shabnim Ismail is a star attraction with her full availability. Meanwhile, Tazmin Brits and Sune Luus are available the entire competition. From India, the 19 players in the draft include Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma.
Signings
WBBL, BBL teams announce pre-draft overseas signings
Adelaide Strikers: Smriti Mandhana (WBBL) and Ollie Pope (BBL). Brisbane Heat: Nadine de Klerk (WBBL) and Colin Munro (BBL). Hobart Hurricanes: Lizelle Lee (WBBL) and Chris Jordan (BBL). Melbourne Reengades: Hayley Matthews (WBBL) and Tim Seifert (BBL). Melbourne Stars: Marizanne Kapp (WBBL) and Tom Curran (BBL). Perth Scrochers: Sophie Devine (WBBL) and Finn Allen (BBL). Sydney Sixers: Amelia Kerr (WBBL) and Akeal Hosein (BBL). Sydney Thunder: Chamari Athapaththu (WBBL) and Sam Billings (BBL).